Last year accidents involving toys killed more than 30 children and injured 131,000 more, an increase of 16% from 1986. With the gift-buying season in full swing, concerned consumer advocates, who say this is the worst year for dangerous toys they can remember, have published lists of potentially hazardous playthings.
The top offenders include toys that break into sharp pieces or contain parts that toddlers can easily choke on. Among them, according to various consumer groups: a Burger King Cheeseburger set made by Multi Toys (the plastic French fries look real and could be swallowed); Spinning Top from Ohio Art (its handle pulls off to expose a sharp metal shaft); and Medical Kit from Blue Box Toys (the plastic instruments break easily).
Toys that catch fire are another worry. Americans for Democratic Action, a Washington watchdog group, tested 18 stuffed animals and found that 13 of them, including Mattel’s Baby Mickey Snuggle Pal, Paddington’s 30th Anniversary bear from Eden Toys and Playskool’s Big Bird, are flammable, even though they meet existing federal and industry standards. Manufacturers say they have had few complaints and would have to use toxic chemicals to make the toys fully flame-retardant.